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Reckless Driving

The crime of Reckless Driving or Racing is much more serious than a simple traffic infraction. Many people cited for this offense are either speeding too fast or driving in an aggressive manner. The problem is that besides a fine, a person can face significant jail time, suspension of their driver's license, an increase in insurance rates and even immigration consequences.

Reckless Driving is a criminal offense, a gross misdemeanor. If a person is convicted they could face up to a year in jail and a fine of $5000. Some courts or prosecutors look harshly upon a person charged with Reckless Driving due to a belief such a charge indicated that the driver was a danger to others. This reaction could have a person facing real jail time.

If a person is convicted of or pleads guilty to Reckless Driving they will not only face jail time but also a mandatory license suspension. The Department of Licensing will suspend anyone convited of Reckless Driving for a period of 30 days. There is no way around this harsh punishment. And, as opposed to someone convicted of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, you have less chance of obtaining a probationary license. The only method allowed for you to drive on a Reckless Driving suspension is to apply for a Occupational License. This would enable you to only drive to work and back.

Also upon conviction of a Reckless Driving charge, a person's automobile insurance would be informed. This would require a driver to obtain high-risk or SR-22 insurance. This is very often more expensive than a person's current insurance.

Additionally, if a person is not a citizen of the United States and find themselves convicted of Reckless Driving the immigration consequences could be severe. This could even lead to a person's deportation from this country. An additional penalty could also be a driver's exclusion from entry into Canada.

The lawyers at Powers & Costeck have represented many people accused of this crime. Many of these cases are dismissed outright. Other times, Mr. Costeck or Mr. Powers will work with the client to complete traffic safety programs and negotiate a result that is reduced to a civil infraction. The goals of the client are always at the forefront of this firm's pursuit of justice when confronting a charge of Reckless Driving.